Review: Jingle
Picture: Cast of Jingle (Credit: Creative Futures Photography)
The JACs Entertainment team of Ash McCready (Creative Producer Director), and Julieann Nugent (Creative Producer Choreographer) has developed a portfolio of circus shows that have wowed Brisbane audiences: most recently Cirque O L I O and Cirque Bon Bon (Brisbane Festival, 2022 & 2023) and the return of Jingle to Brisbane Powerhouse, after a successful run in 2022. All three shows follow a similar variety format and include many of the same performers. Jingle 2023 brings a cast of 16 to the Powerhouse, which means that audiences get value for money with a selection of music, dance, comedy, and circus.
If you haven’t seen a JACs Entertainment show before then expect to be entertained by an excellent MC/comic magician, to be amazed at the strength and flexibility of the lyra/hoop, hand balance and aerial artists, and to be wowed by the fantastic work of the expert juggler. And if you haven’t already seen Duo Synergy , then expect to enjoy Emma Goh and Scott Reynolds’ roller-skating balance and spinning work, which requires great strength, trust, and style.
Our Magician Host (Chris Wayne) did an excellent job at the 4pm Saturday show in keeping the younger members of the audience entertained and involved, with several well-judged and entertaining pieces of audience participation. Wayne is a talented magician who is clearly at ease with working a crowd—and ‘running the show’ as MC meant that we were treated to a range of different ‘tricks,’ and to a spectacular ending. So be prepared for lots of óohs’ and áhhs,’ and quite a bit of ‘how did he do that.’
The absolute stars of the show are the cirque performers: Stephen Williams (aerial straps), Cody Harrington (juggler, with assistant Megan Ray), Jarrod Takle (hand balance), and Ashleigh Roper (aerial Lyra and hula hoop). Takle’s hand balance is a skilful demonstration of making cirque appear both effortless and challenging, as each move repeats on the rising tower of blocks. William’s aerial straps wows audiences—particularly when working directly above the cabaret tables, and then out above the main seating. Harrington’s juggling skills are a joy to behold, and I loved the impressive combination of traditional and new moves; I think it’s the first time I’ve seen a juggler bouncing a ball on their forehead while also juggling many small rings. My strongest praise is reserved for Roper. Roper treats audiences to fluid, flexible, and quite fabulous aerial lyra—and then to a second segment that begins with Takle balancing on her arched back before Roper demonstrates some quite unique hula work.
Picture: Cody Harrington’s Jingle juggling (Credit: Creative Futures Photography)
Picture: Stephen Williams, Jingle (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Jarrod Takle and Ashleigh Roper, Jingle (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Jarrod Takle, Jingle (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Nugent’s choreography is a joy to watch, thanks to the work of the six dancers (Tiara Locke, Shania Locke, Coby Locke, Griffin Cooper, Nick Skein, and Hunter-jai Clist). We were treated to a range of styles that included ballet and tap. My favourite dance segment was the ‘tap dogs’ number, but I am sure that for those who love a more balletic style will have enjoyed the number which featured the talents (and fairly-lights dress) of violinist Quiana Morgan. The dancers also joined the singer, Aleisha Rose, for three numbers that returned to the Christmas theme—including the enjoyable rendition of ‘Santa Baby.’
There are a lot of great choices for a festive-themed show this season, including shows that have returned for many years (here I am thinking of the A Very Naughty Christmas [18+], and the equally entertaining Christmas Actually [12+]). It’s great to see that JACs Entertainment has produced a show that complements those choices, offering an event that is suitable for the whole family. In future years, perhaps JACs Entertainment will add in extra cirque artists to the program (possibly by reducing the musical/dance numbers to accommodate this), and ramping up the festive components, to make sure that it attracts the return of current fans and brings in new audiences.
Sadly the 2023 program ended on 10 December. But, having seen the audience reactions at the 4pm show this weekend, I hope that Jingle makes a welcome return in 2024. If you are looking for an evening out with work colleagues, or friends, I’d suggest A Very Naughty Christmas or Christmas Actually every time. But I recommend Jingle to parents or grandparents who are looking for an afternoon festive treat for the younger members of the family: 70 seated minutes of air-conditioned entertainment and lots of ideas for Christmas gifts (magic sets? roller skates?!).
Picture: Chris Wayne’s Jingle magic (Credit: Creative Futures Photography)
Audience information: Jingle, presented by JACs Entertainment, returned to the Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm for only five shows (7-10 December, 2023). 70 minutes, plus 10 minutes of pre-show chat from the MC (no interval). Recommended 6+, some strobe/bright lighting. Tickets $75-39 (plus booking fee).
The reviewer attended the 4 pm performance, 9 December 2023.
A version of this review first appeared at Nothing Ever Happens in Brisbane.